News

Buncombe County man sentenced to 38-58 months after drive-by shooting

Buncombe County man sentenced to 38-58 months after drive-by shooting

Photo: Saga Communications/828newsNOW


ASHEVILLE, N.C. (828newsNOW) — William Lopez-Hernandez has been sentenced to 38-58 months in the North Carolina Department of Adult Correction for his role in a targeted drive-by shooting at a classmate’s residence.

Buncombe County District Attorney Todd Williams announced the sentencing in a press release on Tuesday, Aug. 4. Lopez-Hernandex plead guilty to discharging a weapon into an occupied dwelling.

Lopez-Hernandez was arrested following an incident where he fired multiple rounds into a vehicle and home occupied by six family members. Law enforcement connected evidence at the scene to Lopez-Hernandez, who later confessed to Asheville Police Department officers and was charged with discharging a weapon into an occupied dwelling and possession of a stolen firearm. The latter charge was dropped under the terms of his plea agreement.

The victims were present in court for the entry of plea and approved the sentence.

“Violent acts that terrorize families in their own homes will be met with justice as prescribed by law,” said Williams. “This active prison sentence reflects our prosecutors’ commitment to holding individuals accountable for gun violence and ensuring public safety.”

Recent Headlines

14 hours ago in Arts & Culture, Community, Entertainment, Lifestyle, Local, On The Town

5 best films at the 2026 Asheville Film Festival

The 2nd annual Asheville Film Festival ran from Aug. 21-23, 2026, at the Masonic Temple in downtown Asheville. Read a review of our favorite festival films below.

3 days ago in Lifestyle

Fall books: Fiction takes the spotlight in bookstores during the midterm season

Midterm election news will fill the headlines this fall, but, among book buyers, fiction will likely have top billing.